Police have decided against arresting a man who smashed a door at a Dunedin takeaway in a racial outburst at the weekend, saying the attack was a mental health incident.
A police spokeswoman said the investigation into the Sunday afternoon outburst at The Flying Squid takeaway had concluded it was related to the man's mental health, and no arrest was made.
''This matter has now been fully investigated and no further action is required by police.''
Asked if the man was now in the care of mental health professionals, the spokeswoman added only that officers would be ''following up to ensure the appropriate action is taken''.
The Flying Squid owner Yanzhen Chen was philosophical about the incident yesterday, saying she expected the man, who was a regular customer at her Albany St takeaway this year, would not show his face for a few weeks.
She understood police were making arrangements for the man to pay for the window he kicked and smashed at the base of the door.
Ms Chen said the man entered the takeaway about 3pm before ordering a scoop of chips.
Shortly after, a group of about 10 young people she believed to be students entered her premises.
At this point the customer, who she described as a Maori man in his 50s or 60s with long, black and curly hair, became extremely agitated.
''When he saw the students he became really angry.
''He was yelling 'f*** white people'.''
Ms Chen said the man left the shop and one of the young customers moved to close the door.
At this point, the man kicked and smashed the thick glass window at the base of the door.
